Reader's Question: Converting Home Movies To DVD

Filed in archive DIY on April 23, 2005

I wanted to share this email with you:

William, I've got a collection of about 100 home movies on VHS. I'm afraid the tapes are going to wear out and want to find a way to preserve them. I've thought about Copying them to DVD or even finding a way to put them on my computer but I don't know where to start and thought maybe you could point me in the right direction. Thanks, Susan M.

Susan, thanks for the email. Depending on what you want to do there are several solutions. The most important thing is to be sure you have the right hardware and software. One of the best places to start is a tutorial at CNET called:

Convert VHS to Digital, which breaks down the considerations and tools needed to preserve your collection.

PCMag.com also has a step by step tutorial that shows you how to convert tapes using MyDVD software called:

Digital Video Guide: Converting Tapes to DVD

If you want something that really breaks down the steps, be sure to check out an ebook from Jake Ludington that's pretty thorough. It'll cost you about $17US but it's worth it. See:


Converting VHS to DVD

The thing to remember is that Do-it-yourself isn't for everyone. If that's the case, you can have it done for you by a company like:

http://www.wadesound.com/

or

http://yourmemoriesremembered.com/

These are just a few of the options. If any of our readers have a suggestion, please leave a comment.